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Homemade Marshmallows recipe photo

Marshmallows

These homemade marshmallows are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for cozy treats or gifting. Easy to make with simple ingredients and totally customizable!
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
  • Medium Saucepan
  • candy thermometer
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Rubber spatula
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup water cold, for blooming gelatin
  • 3 envelopes unflavored gelatin 0.25 ounce each
  • 1/2 cup water for syrup
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

Bloom the Gelatin

  • In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of cold water with the unflavored gelatin. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes, letting the gelatin absorb the water and swell.

Prepare the Sugar Syrup

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup of water, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and kosher salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and let it boil without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).

Combine Gelatin and Syrup

  • Once the syrup reaches the correct temperature, remove it from heat. Carefully pour the hot syrup into the bowl of bloomed gelatin while mixing on low speed. Gradually increase the speed and continue to mix for about 10-15 minutes, until the mixture is thick, fluffy, and glossy.

Flavor and Pour

  • Add the vanilla extract and mix for an additional minute. Then, pour the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Let It Set

  • Dust the top of the marshmallow mixture with powdered sugar and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

Cut and Coat

  • Once set, turn the marshmallow slab out onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into squares. Dust all sides with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Store marshmallows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freeze marshmallows for longer storage, dusting with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
  • Reheat hardened marshmallows in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.
  • Try adding different extracts or food coloring for customized flavors and colors.
  • Substitute gelatin with agar-agar for a vegan-friendly version.
Keyword Candy, Easy, Homemade, Snack, Sweet